THE ROCK PARK
NATURE, HISTORY, MYTH
Historically, the Rocca gave its name to the city, derived from the Greek ‘Kephaloidion’ (head), due to the shape and position of the cliff. A path in the green, surrounded by medieval walls, leads to the top, offering spectacular views from Palermo to Capo D'Orlando.
Storicamente, la Rocca ha dato il nome alla città, derivato dal greco “Kephaloidion” (testa), per la forma e posizione della rupe. Un sentiero immerso nel verde, circondato da mura medievali, conduce alla cima, offrendo una vista spettacolare da Palermo a Capo D’Orlando.
The limestone rock, with caves and fissures, is home to a rich flora and fauna, including conifers, eucalyptus trees, gulls, birds of prey, rodents and endemic insects.
The Rock of Cefalù is also linked to the Greek myth of Daphnis, a demigod shepherd. According to the legend, Daphnis was transformed into the rock after a series of tragic events, keeping his soul alive.
To reach the summit, it takes about two hours of walking. It starts from Corso Ruggero, the heart of the Norman town, and continues along the narrow Via Saraceni, which leads to the Rocca footpath. The ticket office is located a little further on.
Admission costs EUR 5 (EUR 2.50 for children 6-14 years, over 65s and teachers) and is open all year round from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with last admission at 6.30 p.m.